Search results for "Rigorous setting" in Home Design Ideas

Since founding her eponymous design firm, Sara Story has forged a reputation for imparting to all her projects an ineffable style she can truly call her own. Drawing inspiration from extensive travels, an active interest in contemporary art and fashion, and a rigorous lifestyle, Sara wields a keen eye to exact her aesthetic vision. Story designed a plan wherein each room would happen something surprising “each artwork is in conversation with another piece of art or a chair or a lamp”. With a neutral palette, Sara introduced elements to add some fun, color and bring the owners personality into every room. The modern interior design project is the perfect setting to appreciate the spectacular mountain views in Aspen.

This extensive remodel overlooking Lake Austin is a paean to the powerful art it enfolds. Rigorous editing of every distracting, inconsequential element of the original house was critical. So too was the insertion of new complementary components that provide artful ways to move through both interior and exterior rooms. The collection of modern art is arresting. Ranging from a Turrell hologram to a pair of Agnes Martins, the art is framed by the architecture and lighting so that it is experienced in a choreographed, curated way that encourages wandering and an intimate connection to each piece. The mood is set in the entry courtyard. A floating walkway curves down and around a brilliant spiraling blue Clement sculpture. It pauses once, at a moment of surprise, when the first view through the house is filled with the blue water of the lake beyond. Inside, the saturated color of many of the pieces of art are balanced by an absence of other visual clutter in the color palette, furniture, and architecture. A new interior plaster, steel, and bronze stair carves through a space occupied by two small Clement sculptures in niches, a McKay Otto sculpture on a landing and a glass cylinder elevator. This is a very specific place, designed for specific art and for a collector who has a close relationship with each piece.

Introduction
As the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living spaces continue to blur, the world of outdoor furniture design has experienced a remarkable evolution. No longer confined to mere functionality, outdoor furniture has transformed into a symbol of alfresco luxury and design innovation. Amid this landscape, the allure of exclusive outdoor furniture designs is on the rise. This article embarks on a captivating journey, delving deep into the realm of outdoor opulence and exploring how these exquisite designs, including the "wicker lounge," elevate the art of alfresco living.
The Paradigm Shift in Outdoor Living
An Extension of Interior Aesthetics
Gone are the days when outdoor furniture merely served utilitarian purposes. The paradigm has shifted, and today's outdoor spaces are treated as extensions of interior aesthetics. Exclusive outdoor furniture designs seamlessly bridge the gap between indoor and outdoor realms, inviting individuals to indulge in the luxury of al fresco living. The "wicker lounge" alludes to the sophistication and comfort that these designs bring to outdoor lounging areas.
Alfresco Living: A Lifestyle Statement
The concept of alfresco living has evolved beyond a fleeting trend; it has become a lifestyle statement. Exclusive outdoor furniture designs, exemplified by the's inclusion, reflect a commitment to embracing nature while savoring the finer things in life. These designs are a testament to the pursuit of comfort, style, and relaxation amidst the beauty of the great outdoors.
Craftsmanship and Elegance
Meticulous Craftsmanship
Exclusive outdoor furniture designs are often characterized by meticulous craftsmanship that sets them apart from their counterparts. From intricate detailing to exquisite finishes, each piece is a work of art that showcases the skill and dedication of master artisans. The "wicker lounge" accentuates the attention to detail that goes into creating these exceptional outdoor furniture pieces.
Elegance Redefined
Gone are the days of basic plastic chairs and metal tables. Exclusive outdoor furniture designs redefine elegance in outdoor spaces. With materials ranging from premium woods to durable metals, and yes, even wicker lounges, these designs add a touch of refinement to patios, decks, and gardens. Their elegant presence elevates outdoor areas into havens of opulence and style.
Blurring Boundaries with Innovative Designs
Seamless Integration
Exclusive outdoor furniture designs seamlessly integrate form and function, creating outdoor spaces that are both visually stunning and incredibly practical. The inclusion of the reinforces the idea of harmonious integration, where wicker lounges and other exquisite pieces effortlessly merge with the natural surroundings, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors.
Innovative Materials and Textures
The world of outdoor furniture design is a playground of innovative materials and textures. Exclusive designs often incorporate unexpected elements, such as the "wicker lounge," that add a touch of uniqueness and character. These materials not only withstand the rigors of outdoor use but also contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal, making each piece a conversation starter.
Personalized Outdoor Retreats
Curated Spaces
Exclusive outdoor furniture designs offer the opportunity to curate personalized outdoor retreats that cater to individual tastes and preferences. Whether it's a cozy nook for relaxation or a lavish dining area for entertaining, these designs enable individuals to transform their outdoor spaces into havens of tranquility and style. The "wicker lounge" signifies the comfort and relaxation that these designs bring to these curated outdoor sanctuaries.
A Reflection of Lifestyle
Outdoor furniture is no longer a mere afterthought; it has become a reflection of one's lifestyle. Exclusive designs encapsulate a sense of luxury and refinement that resonates with individuals who value the finer things in life. With the 's presence, we emphasize how wicker lounges and other exclusive pieces play a pivotal role in creating outdoor environments that align with a sophisticated and discerning lifestyle.
Harmonizing Nature and Design
A Symphony of Elements
Exclusive outdoor furniture designs act as a bridge between the natural world and human creativity. They harmonize with the organic elements of the outdoors, creating a symphony of textures, colors, and shapes. The "wicker lounge" serves as a reminder of how these designs, including wicker, weave a narrative that celebrates the inherent beauty of nature while adding a touch of human ingenuity.
Elevating Outdoor Gatherings
Outdoor furniture is not merely about aesthetics; it also enhances the outdoor experience. Exclusive designs, such as the 's reference to wicker lounges, elevate outdoor gatherings by providing comfortable seating that encourages relaxation and conversation. These designs facilitate meaningful connections with nature and with one another, turning every outdoor event into a memorable affair.
Conclusion
The realm of outdoor furniture design has undergone a remarkable transformation, ushering in a new era of alfresco luxury and opulence. Exclusive outdoor furniture designs, epitomized by the "wicker lounge," are at the forefront of this evolution. They redefine the concept of outdoor living, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, and offering a symphony of craftsmanship, elegance, and innovation. As individuals seek to create outdoor retreats that reflect their lifestyle and appreciation for beauty, exclusive outdoor furniture designs stand as the embodiment of sophistication, comfort, and style. These designs are not just furniture; they are the keys to unlocking a world of alfresco luxury that seamlessly integrates with the natural beauty of the outdoors.
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This extensive remodel overlooking Lake Austin is a paean to the powerful art it enfolds. Rigorous editing of every distracting, inconsequential element of the original house was critical. So too was the insertion of new complementary components that provide artful ways to move through both interior and exterior rooms.
The collection of modern art is arresting. Ranging from a Turrell hologram to a pair of Agnes Martins, the art is framed by the architecture and lighting so that it is experienced in a choregraphed, curated way that encourages wandering and an intimate connection to each piece.
The mood is set in the entry courtyard. A floating walkway curves down and around a brilliant spiraling blue Clement sculpture. It pauses once, at a moment of surprise, when the first view through the house is filled with the blue water of the lake beyond. Inside the saturated color of many of the pieces of art are balanced by an absence of other visual clutter in the color palette, furniture and architecture. A new interior plaster, steel and bronze stair carves through a space occupied by two small Clement sculptures in niches, a Page Kempner sculpture on a landing and a glass cylinder elevator.
This is a very specific place, designed for specific art and for a collector who has a close relationship with each piece.

Acton, MA
2008
sq ft varies
Visioning, programming, concept design, schematic design, construction documentation and construction administration
The HingeHouse project was the result of a unique partnership between an independent architect and a pre-fabricated home manufacturer – a partnership among the first of its kind in the country. Today, many pre-fab companies have adopted this collaborative approach recognizing that homeowners are looking for unique, custom homes while taking advantage of reliable and predictable construction methods and costs.
In 2008, the partnership was created to rethink pre-engineered post-and-beam and panelized systems to connect clients to a more modern and integrated set of design values. By integrating systems, factory design approach, manufacturing methodologies and construction sequences with design criteria grounded in sustainable planning and rigorous implementation, HingeHouse was developed.
HingeHouse is a fully-customizable pre-fab home which can be configured to meet the needs of any site, and any family. It is flexible and expandable using Deck House engineered building components. Starting with basic floor plans that are optimized spatially to Deck’s standard components, the living spaces are rotated around a "hinge” point. This design solution addresses the limitations and challenges of a particular site, while highlighting the best aspects of it. HingeHouse considers passive solar orientation depending on where the home is placed on the site and how it is “hinged”. It provides for maximum cross-ventilation from prevailing winds, preserves existing site formations and trees, and works on sloping grades. It addresses specific desired views while mitigating unwanted adjacencies, and provides great flexibility for entry sequences.
HingeHouse uses Deck’s standard sloped roof post-and-beam component system to create a lyrical, light-filled home. The western red cedar exterior is sculptural and dynamic. Interior spaces are lofty, with great view potential using Deck’s own custom-made mahogany windows. The “hinge” of the home, where the two building forms come together, has the added benefit of creating a desirable outdoor living room, complete with an outdoor fireplace. The "hinge” provides both a tool for maximizing customization and spatial orientation and a center of activity at the heart of the home.
Since this partnership in 2008, Maryann Thompson Architects and MATHISON | MATHISON ARCHITECTS have worked with Acorn Deck House Company on numerous full or partial pre-fab projects in the Boston Area, Western Massachusetts, Maryland and Michigan. We have become an advocate for their services and products because it offers advantages on a variety of levels including schedule, cost and quality.
Services provided included visioning, programming, concept design, schematic design, construction documentation and construction administration.
Evan’s Role: Project Designer & Project Manager

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner.
The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

This extensive remodel overlooking Lake Austin is a paean to the powerful art it enfolds. Rigorous editing of every distracting, inconsequential element of the original house was critical. So too was the insertion of new complementary components that provide artful ways to move through both interior and exterior rooms. The collection of modern art is arresting. Ranging from a Turrell hologram to a pair of Agnes Martins, the art is framed by the architecture and lighting so that it is experienced in a choreographed, curated way that encourages wandering and an intimate connection to each piece. The mood is set in the entry courtyard. A floating walkway curves down and around a brilliant spiraling blue Clement sculpture. It pauses once, at a moment of surprise, when the first view through the house is filled with the blue water of the lake beyond. Inside, the saturated color of many of the pieces of art are balanced by an absence of other visual clutter in the color palette, furniture, and architecture. A new interior plaster, steel, and bronze stair carves through a space occupied by two small Clement sculptures in niches, a McKay Otto sculpture on a landing and a glass cylinder elevator. This is a very specific place, designed for specific art and for a collector who has a close relationship with each piece.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

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A tiny 1906 earthquake relief home nestled at the end of a narrow alley on the western slope of Telegraph Hill had been lifted above a garage in the 1930’s then added onto in the 1950’s. Built on the foundations of a church destroyed in the earthquake, the original home had an awkward plan, low ceilings, dark spaces and a collection of odd and clumsy materials. Positioned in the center of the block, with distant views to Nob Hill this is a distinctly urban setting, yet the home is surrounded by its neighbor’s gardens. Directly behind the home stood one of the largest Japanese maple trees in Northern California. This beautiful tree and its preservation prompted the architect to incorporate it as the focal point around which the new home evolved. During the remodel the 1950’s addition was demolished, the remaining structure gutted and 400 additional square feet were added to create a dramatic new contemporary home of high ceilings and flowing spaces all filled with natural light. Carefully skewed geometry and a sleek palette of materials in sensuous colors compliment the drama of space and garden.
In the shadow of the City’s historic landmark Coit Tower, this home is still a tiny wood sided bungalow from the street. The surprise hits immediately when one enters and an 18-foot high grid of windows embraces the Japanese Maple into the corner of the living room. The curving stairway wraps the bar, defining the kitchen and connects to an open bridge flying above to the secluded master bedroom. An arc of perforated steel off the master bedroom deck recalls the radiating forms inside, screening for privacy while filtering rays of sunlight. Radiating lines scored into the rose colored concrete further accentuate the rigorous geometry. Flush overlay birch cabinets are dyed purple for a continuing flow of color from the carpet. Black knobs, appliances, sink and laminate counters complete a composition, which starts with the black hex-crete concrete counter of the bar. Swirls ground into the aluminum facing of the bar wrap a sparkle into the foot of the stair. Sculpted walls shape the space and form niches, each washed with light from geometric fixtures, all linked by the rhythm of the steel cable rails. Smooth exterior grade plywood siding stained gray and turquoise provides crisp form on the exterior, at once in scale with the neighborhood, while denying scale altogether.

Located at a prominent corner on one of the few undeveloped residential sites left in Solana Beach, this project is important not only for the homeowner, but for the community as well. A rigorous site analysis laid the groundwork for a design response which took into account the homeowner’s program, input from the neighbors, and the scale of the project and the character of the neighborhood. The end result is a design that is well set into the existing grade, a move which preserves adjacent views and reduces the visual impact of the structure from the street; all while graciously meeting the desires of the owner.
The plan is broken into six unique floor plates. The bottom four of which tie together along the gradually sloping site. An intentionally long southern exposure implements the basics of passive solar design: large amounts of glass bring in abundant light and warmth in the winter, while deep overhangs protect from unwanted summer heat gain. Ocean views to the west are selectively framed throughout the house without compromising privacy from the busy street corner. Public functions within the house flow seamlessly between indoor and outdoor living spaces. JLC Architecture was responsible for a full architecture and interior package as well as exterior hardscape design.

Tucked away in a forested grove, the classic Shelter Island split-level beach home designed by local architect Ralph Cast offered the owners a chance to carve out a private getaway set within the essence of exclusivity. Looking to create a self-contained aesthetic environment that residents and guests could enjoy without leaving, RND designed a haven of outdoor living, complete with an outdoor living room and a dining area shaded beneath a pergola featuring Philip Stark lounge chairs and dining chairs. RND raised an elevated deck made from durable Ipe wood and stainless steel cabling, connecting the upper level of the house to a freestanding garage converted into an artist's studio. Inside, light and sturdy fabrics splashed with color from an almost-pastel palette meet the rigors of beach days and highlight the play of summer sun on wood flooring and furniture. RND's gourmet-inspired kitchen caters to every need, while the shady, graveled porch opens to a lolling green landscape offset by the blue rectangle of a gahnite pool. The aesthetic playground is hedged by a sculpture garden, a row of umbrella-shaded lounge chairs, and an outdoor dining room featuring custom designed chairs and a Stone Age-inspired table of roughly hewn stone slabs.

This extensive remodel overlooking Lake Austin is a paean to the powerful art it enfolds. Rigorous editing of every distracting, inconsequential element of the original house was critical. So too was the insertion of new complementary components that provide artful ways to move through both interior and exterior rooms.
The collection of modern art is arresting. Ranging from a Turrell hologram to a pair of Agnes Martins, the art is framed by the architecture and lighting so that it is experienced in a choregraphed, curated way that encourages wandering and an intimate connection to each piece.
The mood is set in the entry courtyard. A floating walkway curves down and around a brilliant spiraling blue Clement sculpture. It pauses once, at a moment of surprise, when the first view through the house is filled with the blue water of the lake beyond. Inside the saturated color of many of the pieces of art are balanced by an absence of other visual clutter in the color palette, furniture and architecture. A new interior plaster, steel and bronze stair carves through a space occupied by two small Clement sculptures in niches, a Page Kempner sculpture on a landing and a glass cylinder elevator.
This is a very specific place, designed for specific art and for a collector who has a close relationship with each piece.

Every Chicago home carries its own unique history—and its own set of restoration challenges. From moisture-damaged plaster and decades of paint layers to the harsh thermal cycles of Chicago winters, generic painting approaches simply won't cut it.
At Windy City Painters, we take a tailored, craftsmanship-first approach to local properties across the North Side and Near West Side.
Our 4-Step Restoration Process:
Prep & Surface Repair: Thorough cleaning, sanding, skim coating, and patching for plaster, drywall, and historic wood trim.
Substrate Priming: Applying high-performance primers (such as Zinsser) tailored to the exact surface for maximum adhesion.
Precision Application: Coating with premium, long-lasting finishes using Sherwin-Williams Duration and Benjamin Moore Aura.
Final Inspection: Rigorous multi-point review ensuring pristine line work and surface consistency.
Whether you're restoring a historic greystone in Lincoln Park or updating a modern loft in River North, we deliver durable, beautiful finishes designed to withstand Chicago's demanding four-season climate.
Get Started: Ready to elevate your interior or exterior spaces? Request your free estimate at windypainters.com.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture
Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset.
The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu .
Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home.
The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south.
Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape.
The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature.
Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design.
Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view.
Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward.
Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan
Structural Engineer: ZFA
Contractor: Maison D’Artiste
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2023

Set on a coveted open-bay homesite in Sunset Park, this grand Mediterranean estate by Bayfair is designed as both a showpiece and a sanctuary. Its two-story façade, classic stucco and tile rooflines, and graceful architectural detailing create an immediate sense of permanence and presence along the water.
Inside, a sweeping main staircase and dramatic two-story foyer establish the tone for the home’s scale and craftsmanship. Across both levels, fine finishes and materials—custom millwork, detailed ironwork, curated stone and wood selections—deliver a consistent expression of refined luxury. Expansive living and entertaining spaces open to the bay, blending indoor elegance with outdoor views.
Purpose-built for its waterfront setting, the residence incorporates elevated structural design and resilient construction practices to stand up to the rigors of coastal storms while maintaining comfort and beauty. A custom-designed golf lounge with integrated golf simulator offers a distinctive, private retreat, making this estate as playful as it is sophisticated.

On a quiet street just steps from San Francisco’s beloved Dolores Park, a formerly modest urban structure has been transformed into a luminous vertical residence that quietly redefines contemporary city living. Through a comprehensive remodel and both vertical and horizontal expansion, the project turns a constrained urban footprint into a sequence of serene, art-forward living spaces that unfold upward toward expansive city views.
The architecture balances restraint and warmth: crisp contemporary geometry softened by natural materials, artful lighting, and carefully curated interiors. The result is a home that feels simultaneously grounded and elevated—deeply connected to its neighborhood yet remarkably private.
Reimagining the Urban Envelope
The original building has been almost entirely reconceived. The facade now reads as a disciplined composition of plaster volumes and precisely detailed window openings framed by subtle projecting bands. The geometry references San Francisco’s classic rhythm of bayed facades while stripping the language down to a refined modern expression.
Behind this quiet exterior lies a dramatically expanded interior volume. The redesign adds both additional floor area and new vertical circulation, transforming what was once a conventional city house into a multi-level architectural sequence organized around light, art, and views.
At the roofline, planted terraces soften the building’s silhouette and create a green crown visible from surrounding hillsides.
Interiors as a Sequence of Galleries
Inside, the home unfolds as a series of spatial moments connected by a sculptural stair and gallery-like corridors.
Wide plank oak floors run throughout, providing continuity and warmth against a palette of plaster walls, dark steel detailing, and natural stone. The hallways function almost as curated galleries, with layered artworks suspended in front of mesh panels that create depth and subtle shadow.
Light filters through carefully placed windows and stair openings, transforming circulation spaces into contemplative transitions rather than mere passageways.
A Living Room Anchored by Stone and Light
The primary living room occupies one of the home’s central floors, where a quiet interplay of texture and geometry defines the space.
A monumental fireplace wrapped in dark stone forms the room’s anchor, its mass contrasting with a recessed ceiling plane that seems to float above the seating area. Integrated perimeter lighting creates a soft architectural glow that washes the ceiling and walls.
Furniture is sculptural yet understated—rounded lounge chairs in warm ochre velvet, tailored sofas, and a striking marble cocktail table whose expressive veining becomes a focal artwork in itself. Deep blue carpeting grounds the seating arrangement and subtly absorbs light, enhancing the calm atmosphere.
Above the fireplace, a delicate projection artwork introduces a moment of visual poetry—an unexpected cinematic gesture that transforms the wall into a quietly animated canvas.
Kitchen as Architectural Furniture
The kitchen expresses a different register: crisp, tactile, and materially rich.
Custom walnut cabinetry spans the wall in a continuous plane, punctuated only by the sculpted hood and integrated appliances. The wood’s depth and warmth are balanced by expanses of pale marble that flow seamlessly from countertop to backsplash.
Three dome pendants hover above the island like industrial sculptures, casting pools of warm light onto the stone surface.
A row of vivid red stools introduces a controlled burst of color, a small but confident departure from the otherwise restrained palette.
Dining With a Living Backdrop
Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining room opens toward a glass wall overlooking a vertical garden of climbing ivy. The greenery becomes a constantly changing backdrop—lush and shadowy during the day, atmospheric and cinematic after sunset.
A dark wood table anchors the room, surrounded by pale oak chairs whose understated forms echo Scandinavian design traditions. The simplicity of the furniture allows the view and natural light to become the dominant experience.
Intimate Spaces and Material Contrast
Throughout the home, smaller rooms offer moments of intimacy and material experimentation.
The powder room pairs textured wall coverings with a dramatic black marble vanity whose bold veining feels almost geological. A suspended mirror and slender pendant create a sculptural composition against the tactile backdrop.
The primary bedroom, by contrast, feels serene and expansive. Floor-to-ceiling glazing frames sweeping views of the city, while soft textiles and warm wood paneling create a cocooning effect. Slender black columns subtly define a sitting area without interrupting the openness of the space.
Bathing Above the City
In the primary bathroom, a sculptural freestanding tub sits beside a panoramic window overlooking San Francisco’s hills and rooftops.
The room’s palette—light oak, grey stone, and matte metals—reinforces the spa-like atmosphere. Floating cabinetry and integrated lighting maintain a sense of visual lightness despite the richness of the materials.
Entertaining Above the Park
Higher in the house, a lounge and bar area becomes the social heart of the home. Here, dark stone slabs with dramatic veining wrap the bar wall like a piece of monumental art.
Open shelving displays glassware and spirits, while integrated wine storage hints at the home’s entertaining ambitions. A soft leather sectional and low glass table create a relaxed setting for conversation, framed by expansive views of the city skyline.
Cinema and Retreat
The lower level introduces yet another atmosphere: a dedicated media room designed for immersive viewing.
Dark walls, plush seating, and soft lighting create a cinematic environment that contrasts intentionally with the airy upper floors. It’s a retreat within the home—intimate, quiet, and removed from the brightness above.
Architecture That Balances Discipline and Warmth
What makes the project particularly compelling is its balance between architectural discipline and lived warmth.
Every element—from the carefully framed views to the restrained material palette—contributes to a cohesive spatial narrative. Yet the home never feels austere. Natural materials, curated art, and layered lighting create a sense of comfort and depth.
The result is a house that feels both architecturally rigorous and deeply human.
A Contemporary Interpretation of San Francisco Living
In a neighborhood defined by historic homes and iconic park views, this transformation offers a contemporary interpretation of San Francisco living.
It respects the city’s urban density while embracing openness, light, and vertical living. The home rises quietly above its surroundings, culminating in panoramic vistas that stretch across rooftops, hills, and sky.
What began as a conventional structure has become something far more nuanced: a modern urban sanctuary—part gallery, part retreat, and wholly connected to the vibrant city just beyond its walls.

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture
Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset.
The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu .
Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home.
The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south.
Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape.
The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature.
Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design.
Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view.
Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward.
Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan
Structural Engineer: ZFA
Contractor: Maison D’Artiste
Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed
Year Completed: 2023

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Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

2013 Red Diamond Achiever Award winner: Dave deBruyen of InHaus Development Ltd.
Distributor: Marvin Windows of Canada
Products Used: All Ultrex® Casement & Awning, sliding patio door.
Marvin® windows and doors.
The Beachaus project was originally designed to qualify for LEED Platinum status. The design goal of this highly contemporary home was to leave a small footprint and to be 100% lit by natural daylight. 12’ ceilings with wall to wall glass give the illusion of additional space, but made it a challenge when it came to solar heat gain. Integrity’s combination of glazing options and Ultrex pultruded fiberglass helped the home meet the rigorous requirements of LEED Platinum status.

This modern exterior LED wall pack was designed to optimize efficiency through heat dissipation and optical management. This LED wall pack provides an ideal wall wash lighting solution utilizing a fraction of the energy of traditional sources and requiring virtually no maintenance.
1184 70W, 5000 Raw Lumens, 4000K
The LED wallpack can be adjusted and locked in a set position to optimize the desired light distribution.
The housing and door frame are fabricated of heavy-duty die-cast aluminum. The optical system is comprised of high power COBs mounted on a highlyrefl ective panel. The LEDs are oriented in their optimal position and are enclosed with tempered glass. The LED board is mounted onto a substantial aluminum heat sink to maximize heat dissipation. All components undergo a rigorous pre-paint treatment and are coated with baked powder coat paint, giving them a highly durable finish.
KEY FEATURES
DLC Listed
Die-cast aluminum housing
Sleek design
Also available in 347V

Unique living room that combines modern and minimal approach with eclectic elements that bring character and natural warmth to the space. With its architectural rigor, the space features zellige tile fireplace, soft limewash plaster walls, and luxurious wool area rug to combine raw with refined, old with new, and timeless with a touch of spontaneity.
The space features painting by Milly Ristvedt, chairs by De La Espada upholstered in lush forest green velvet and an iconic iron floor lamp by Room Studio, all mixed with a carefully curated array of antique pieces and natural materials including client's collectible sculpture Le Contemplateu by Jean Touret.
Our goal was to create an environment that would reflect the client's infinite affection for contemporary art while still being in tune with the Portuguese cultural heritage and the natural landscape the house is set in.
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